Business, general

Microsoft gathers its allies to attack what it dismissed: network computers

Article Abstract:

Microsoft is combating the concept of the network computer (NC) by proposing a simpler and less expensive PC. The NC is a low-cost computing device that lacks disk storage and relies on the network to store data and access applications. The NC concept is supported by Sun Microsystems, Oracle Corp and others who wish to loosen the hold Microsoft and Intel have on the microcomputer industry. Sun plans to introduce its JavaStation on Oct 29, 1996. Microsoft has ignored the NC hype for the past year, but is now reversing directions. The new reference platform will provide a PC that is much easier to use than traditional Intel-based systems, but will preserve the investments users have made in software. Microsoft plans to improve its Windows operating systems to provide ways to store data and applications on network servers, instead of hard drives. The company has not yet determined what to call the new systems.

Microsoft, Sony plan partnership in multimedia area

Article Abstract:

Sony Corp and Microsoft Corp are announcing a broad partnership to develop hardware and software for interactive TV and other multimedia applications, starting with set-top boxes for video on demand. The venture is also expected to produce other services that rely on new high-speed network technologies and special database server software for the fledgling market. Some of these interactive products are slated to be tested in Microsoft's laboratories later in 1995. Sony and Microsoft say they expect set-top boxes to be ready by 1996, but a Sony insider claims it may take longer. The Sony Microsoft venture is one of the most powerful to date, aimed at exploiting the convergence of entertainment and communications technology. Microsoft spends $100 million annually on the development of interactive technologies and has some pieces of its proposed plan, its Tiger server software, in place.

Oracle plans to integrate TV programs with data from the World Wide Web

Article Abstract:

Oracle is working on a technology that integrates information from the Web with television programming. The technology was originally developed by an affiliate of Netscape Communications, which Oracle now controls. The technology was created to support the belief that slow moving Web pages will not be able to capture the attention of TV viewers that are accustom to the faster pace of video. Oracle will begin offering the decoder device for automatic Web information into a television program integration in limited amounts just prior to the 1997 Christmas season. During the first quarter of 1998, the company plans to make them widely available. WebTV Interactive Networks is also working on a enhanced television decoder device.